BFT Consulting Blog

Get the latest news and articles about the transport industry right here on our blog.

Get A Free Quote

Same Job, 20% Dearer: Is Your Transport Manager a VAT Time Bomb?

by John | October 27, 2026 | Operator's Licence | 0 Comments

Are Transport Manager fees subject to VAT? The answer is in the contract, not the job title. By John Potgieter FCILT, Principal Consultant, BFT Consulting | 22/10/2026 | Law stated as at 22/10/2026 (Great Britain) The short answer: the job title does not decide it...

What Commissioners Look For – Blue Flag Transport Consulting Insight

by John | October 15, 2026 | Transportation | 0 Comments

Understanding the Commissioner’s Role When it comes to running a transport business in the UK, commissioners play a critical role in deciding whether your operator licence application is accepted. They ensure that companies and drivers follow strict rules to keep the...

The 2025 Financial Standing Rates for HGV Operators – Updated by Blue Flag Transport Consulting

by John | October 9, 2026 | Financial Standing | 0 Comments

For operators of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the UK, Financial standing is the requirement to show that your business has sufficient readily-available funds to run vehicles safely and compliantly. It forms one of the key tests when applying for or renewing a...

What Is FCILT? Why a Chartered Fellow of CILT Leads BFT Consulting

by John | October 1, 2026 | Operator's Licence, BFT Consulting | 0 Comments

What Is FCILT? Why a Chartered Fellow of CILT Leads BFT Consulting Running a haulage business takes more than keeping trucks on the road. You need sound plans, clear records and people who know their duties. When problems arise, you need advice you understand and...

Adding Categories to Your Driving Licence

by John | September 16, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Adding categories to your driving licence lets you drive larger or different types of vehicles. This step is often needed when moving into professional road transport. You may want to drive a lorry, bus, coach, minibus or vehicle with a trailer. Each category sets out...

Download and Order DVLA Forms: A Simple Guide for UK Drivers and Transport Operators

by John | September 15, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Drivers and transport operators often need official forms to update records, apply for a driving entitlement or report a change. Many DVLA forms are available online. You can download some forms, while others must come from a Post Office that offers DVLA services....

Driving Licence Fees for UK Transport Professionals

by John | September 14, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Driving licence fees form a small but important part of running a transport business. Drivers need the right licence for the vehicle they drive. Operators must also check each driver’s entitlement before giving them work. A missed renewal, an expired photocard, or the...

Driving in Great Britain on a Non-GB Licence

by John | September 11, 2026 | Licence Application | 0 Comments

Drivers come to Great Britain from many parts of the world. Some visit for a short work trip. Others move here to join a haulage firm or start a transport business. If you hold a non-GB driving licence, you must check whether it allows you to drive in England,...

Reapply for Your Driving Licence If You’ve Been Disqualified

by John | September 10, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

A driving disqualification can stop you from working and affect your income. This is a serious issue for HGV drivers, bus drivers, owner drivers and transport companies. When your ban ends, your old driving licence does not always become valid at once. You may need to...

Seven Steps to Ensure Drivers Are Managed for Willing, Demonstrable, and Active Compliance

by John | September 9, 2026 | Compliance management | 0 Comments

Prepared by: BFT Consulting Ltd Principal Consultant: John Potgieter Cambridge / Marlow Company Number: 14943001 Contact: +44 7513 379221 Version Control Version Date Author Description 1.0 10 Dec 2025 J. Potgieter Initial document creation Important Disclaimer This...

Does an O Licence Have to Be Displayed?

Jul 2, 2024

Understanding the requirements and regulations surrounding an operator's licence (O-licence) is crucial for anyone involved in the UK's transport industry. One common query is whether this licence needs to be displayed on the vehicle. This article provides clear,...

How much is an operator’s licence?

Jul 2, 2024

For businesses in the UK's transport industry, obtaining an operator's licence is a fundamental step. This guide delves into the costs of acquiring and maintaining an operator’s licence, providing clear, actionable information for transport professionals such as...

How Long Does an Operator’s Licence Last?

Jul 1, 2024

Navigating the regulatory landscape of the UK's transportation industry is crucial for those operating commercial vehicles. A fundamental aspect of this navigation is understanding the duration of an operator’s licence and what you need to do to maintain it. This...

Do I Need an Operator’s Licence for a 4×4 and Trailer?

Jul 1, 2024

Understanding the legal requirements, including whether you need an operator’s licence, is crucial for compliance and safety when operating a 4x4 with a trailer for commercial purposes in the UK. This guide breaks down the essentials, helping drivers and business...

Do You Need a Transport Manager for an Operator’s Licence?

Jun 28, 2024

Navigating the requirements for an operator's licence in the UK can be complex, especially when it comes to an understanding the role of a transport manager. This article provides a comprehensive look into why having a transport manager is not just a regulatory...

What Are the Three Types of Operator Licences?

Jun 28, 2024

In the United Kingdom's transport industry, securing the proper operator licence is a cornerstone of legality and efficiency for transport managers and business owners. Understanding the various types of operator licences can guide you through the complexities of...

« Older Entries

Next Entries »

Contact Us at Blue Flag Transport Consulting

Interested in our services and solutions? Contact us today for expert guidance and hassle-free assistance.

Telephone

0330 179 7379

Email

Info@bftconsulting.co.uk

Licensing@bftconsulting.co.uk

PI@bftconsulting.co.uk